Sport and exercise with Type 1 Diabetes: helping your child stay active

Type 1 Diabetes doesn't stop children playing sport. Max loves football. With a bit of planning, children with Type 1 can run, swim, dance and play just like their friends.

Why activity affects blood sugar

When we move, our muscles use glucose for energy, and exercise makes the body more sensitive to insulin. That's why activity usually lowers blood glucose. The effect can continue for hours afterwards, including overnight after a busy day.

Short, very intense activity, such as sprinting or competitive matches, and the excitement of a big game can sometimes make blood glucose rise for a while. Every child is different, so it's worth keeping notes to spot patterns.

Before

• Check blood glucose, or look at the CGM, before starting.
• Follow your diabetes team's advice on starting levels, snacks and insulin changes before exercise.
• Make sure the coach or PE teacher knows the signs of a hypo and what to do.

During

• Keep fast-acting glucose close by: in a pocket, a bum bag or with the coach.
• Take a break to check during longer sessions.
• Drink water.
• Your child should always stop and treat a hypo straight away, and only return to play when their levels have recovered.

After

• Check again after exercise, and before bed after a very active day.
• Be aware of delayed hypos later on or overnight. Your team may suggest a snack or insulin adjustment.

Pumps, sensors and sport

Many pumps have a temporary basal or exercise setting, and some children take their pump off for contact sports or swimming. Talk to your diabetes team about the best approach. Sensors and pump sites can be protected with tape or sports sleeves.

Confidence is the goal

The most important thing is that your child feels they belong on the pitch. Every challenge is a chance to show what they can do. In the words of Max: "Every challenge I face is just another step toward proving that nothing can stop me."

Free guide

Our free Sports Day guide helps children learn to fuel up, check before exercise and treat lows during sport. Book 2, Sports Day, is the story version.

Please note: this article is general information written by a parent, not medical advice. Always follow the plan and advice of your child's diabetes team.

Gary RapsonMax's dad and the author of the Captain Lantus books. Max was diagnosed with Type 1 at 18 months old.